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Legislative Council approves $65,000 annual contract for capitol screening after debate
Summary
The Legislative Council voted 9–3 to assign and renew a capitol security screening contract with Universal Protection Service LP not to exceed $65,000 annually after members debated whether lobby metal detectors and x‑ray screening are necessary.
The Alaska Legislative Council voted 9–3 on Dec. 16 to approve assignment and renewal number 1 of a capitol security screening contract with Universal Protection Service (Limited Partnership), in a contract not to exceed $65,000 for the 2026 session period.
Procurement officer JC Kestel told the council the contract covers screening services in the capitol lobby: "These contractors would operate the x‑ray machine and the metal detector that the public would go through in the lobby during session," and that the renewal is written for sessions and special sessions when they occur. Kestel said the annual, not‑to‑exceed figure for the screening contract is $65,000.
Senator Stedman opposed the renewal, calling lobby screening redundant and a potential barrier to public access. "I don't feel personally it's needed that we have a metal screening at our entrance... I just think it's... redundant and it's not needed," Stedman said, adding that armed security is already present in chambers and at building entrances. Representative Stutes asked for clarification about whether the contract covered continuous coverage or only session periods; Kestel confirmed it is for sessions and special sessions.
Representative Edgmon supported the contract, citing recent conversations with other states' security officials and saying preemptive measures can matter for safety: "You can't put a price tag on saving somebody's life," Edgmon said.
The roll call reflected the split: 9 ayes, 3 nays. Senator Kiel and Senator Stedman were among those recorded as no votes; Chair Hannan announced the motion passed. The contract is intended to cover screening during legislative sessions and, if exercised, would be in place beginning Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, 2026, for session coverage as described by procurement staff.
The council moved on to other business after the vote; there was no additional amendment recorded to alter the contract's term or funding limit.
